Russell Spinages' Youth Club transformed the lives of many young people in the 1950s and early 1960s.
Have a look at the photos and scrap books( compiled by Peggy Spinage) in the History section of this site
Many of the young people (now less young!) are still around Faringdon. I'm sure you'll recognise a few
ED(GW)
Hello all, just a quick note to say that the icafe.com has now opened !!!
not all products and services will be available from the opening but we will be adding to the list of many things that will be going on at the café over the next few months.
internet, pc use, A4 printing, coffee, tea ,snacks and cold drinks, lessons, repairs and some parts are now up and running,
So pop in and say hello, even if its just to look around! any ideas you have on what I should do and sell please let me know and I will see what I can do!
The icafe.com
10 London Street Faringdon oxon SN7 7AA tel 01367 243567
Hope and Aid Direct proudly present ....... A local 15 piece Rhythm, Blues and Boogie band, performing with DJ CITIZEN CANE
www.boogie-me.co.uk
Saturday 11th February 2012 8pm to 11:30pm Faringdon Junior School Tickets £6 available from the Nut Tree, Faringdon, or call Sarah on 01367 242769
All proceeds to Hope and Aid Direct ......... delivering humanitarian aid directly from Faringdon to Kosovo
www.hopeandaiddirect.org.uk Registered Charity Number: 1077146
The Cornerstone Arts Centre, Didcot , 9am to 5.15pm, £41
A CAPPELLA SPRING FEST is a Choral Harmony Workshop being run for the second year at the Cornerstone
Organised by local choirs Oxford Harmony and Harmony InSpires, participants have the opportunity to take part in chorus sessions and classes in singing techniques. Expert tutors include well known Gospel Director Ken Burton, and ex-Swingle Singer Joanne Forbes L’Strange.
Beginners to expert singers welcome
For booking or more information contact: Peter Johnson on peter270744@gmail.com or text 07580 752422.
Yesterday 30th Jan a large Dalmation dog ( mostly white with black patches) came around our house and garden and easily jumped the cattle grid and made off towards Badbury Hill, Highworth Road, Faringdon.
He barked, was big and strong and would not let us get near him.
Dpahne Saunders
at Faringdon Community College
We will be delivering invitations in good time as usual to all those on our list and transport will be provided for those who need it.
Numbers are limited by venue capacity so if you know of a family member, neighbour or friend who is not on the list and would like to attend, please, as soon as possible, contact Mike Bell on 01367 241681 or by email: josroh77-rotary@yahoo.co.uk
Faringdon Town Council are offering a 20% discount on bookings of the Corn Exchange and The Pump House during February and March
Contact 01367 240281
I am not sure if Stephen (posting 6/12/11) is still stuck with his membership at Faringdon Leisure Centre but I have just read a news story which might offer a way out:
http://www.guardian.co.uk/money/2012/jan/25/gyms-contract-crackdown-oft
http://www.thisismoney.co.uk/money/news/article-2092676/Gyms-face-crackdown-lengthy-unfair-membership-contracts.html?ito=feeds-newsxml
If anyone has a gym membership contract for more than 12 months and their circumstances change there has been a recent legal ruling that should be taken into account. In one recent case, it was deemed illegal for the gym in question to enforce their contract. Although this is currently not binding on other gyms, such as SOLL: “The OFT said that the ruling should give other businesses in the sector which use similar terms an 'understanding of how a court would rule' if its terms or contracts were unfair.”
If you still have the contact it might be worth going back to SOLL and pointing out that in the light of this recent court case and the forthcoming guidance from the OFT, they might be better to release you now.
Name Supplied
Loads of useful things - tools, screws, light bulbs, kitchen things, seed potatoes, flower seeds
and I understand they're expecting more stock- of what I don't know
Ed(GW)
1 Male, 1 Female, 1 not sure, aged 20-45, medium coloured hair, average height, local accent, black and white striped jumpers, bag marked Swag, Jemmy in left hand, Balaclava and gloves in right.
Police anticipate an early arrest !
Seemple !
Joe King.
In the Really Useful Shop they have compostable bags which fit really well inside the food caddies we have been given.
You don't need to go all the way to Tesco - just down town.
Fiona Merrick
New show out now - in this show interviews with Sjoerd Vogt talking about this years Eco Week and Mo Miller talking about Zanoba - Faringdons Middle Eastern Dance Group. Music from Ben Walker, The Man with The Stereo Hands and Rumour Shed.
Also don't forget to check out our music show '...from the Ladder Factory'.
www.faringdonradio.com
Descriptions would be helpful: genders, ages, build, hair colour, clothing ..
Name Supplied
This is why we need Tesco’s. Then we can get decent good sized, sensible priced food bags!
When will the store construction start? What is happening to the site that was Cameo Glass? Just a big pile of rubble now.
Come on Councillors, Town, Vale and County. When is Tesco coming and when will the Park Road area look a little tidier?
Colin
Thanks to everyone for the replies. I'll try the recommended bags out. I did get a response from Biffa, telling me that they did not have the details of their suppliers. I considered putting in a freedom of information request to VWHDC, but as the reply I had received was prompt and amiable, even I ;-) couldn't be that mischievous.
name supplied
Compostable bags for food waste caddies. I have tried several makes but have found Tescos sell the ones that I find fit the best.
Hope this helps.
Millie :-)
Beware, there is a gang of thieves around Faringdon. They are using distraction tactics and have already stolen from at least one household. They tried to steal from our shop (Karja at Uptown Fashions). Had it not been for the vigilence of Denise at Presentations, Jess downstairs and Karen at Karja they would have got away with about £60 of our stock.
The police were called but have no turned up. No change there then!
Jane Boulton
Why is there a growing tendency for Charities to unleash an “army” of doorstep sellers trying to get me to sign up to a direct debit for there organisations?
S** off. Go find someone who ACTUALLY gives a damn.
Colin
Available from Sainsbury's stores or online at: http://www.sainsburys.co.uk/groceries/index.jsp?bmUID=1327589075701
and
Try the Mustard Seed, they keep a supply. I have used one roll and found them very satisfactory.
I am pleased to report that a dog walker has been issued a fixed penalty notice for the offence of dog fouling in the Faringdon area. This was due to the support of the public in providing information to identify the person responsible and supplying the intelligence needed to stop this irresponsible dog walker from continuing to allow his dog to foul the highway.
Colin
I dont know whether anyone else is having problems with the food caddy bags, or whether I am especially unlucky/picky. I sent the enquiry (below) to the VWHDC today, so perhaps if there is anyone else out there who has solved this one perhaps you'd be kind enough to recommend a brand which works.
Please could you tell me where to obtain the correct sized compostable bags for the recycling caddies? When the caddies were delivered they came with a supply of bags which were exactly the right size for them, however there seems to be no way that these same bags can be bought. I have tried others, - from shops as recommended by you, but they have been so far too loose or tight and none really fit the caddies comfortably. The ones you supplied were just right, so please can you give details of the firm which supplied them to you, and the item/catalogue number/description, so that I can investigate how to get them.
One way or another I might find the answer
name supplied
The increase for Band D homes will be 3.5% ( or £3.58pa per household). VWHDC and Oxford County Council plan no increase. It seems the budget is very tight ( even though there is an extra £10k from new properties). A proposal to increase the precept by 5% to allow some contingency ( amounts to about £4k) was not carried.
FTC have needed to budget £30k to cover the salary and rental costs of the Faze Youth Centre ( Oxford CC cut the budget for this). It was generally felt that continuing the Youth Club is good for local youths. FTC have a 2 year lease( from Sept 2011). During this time purchase of the land and premises from Oxford CC will be investigated)
The Pump House budget includes some ££ to tidy/pave the area behind the Pump House ( now the Club House has been demolished)
Expected income from renting venues (Pump House and Corn Exchange) has been reduced.
£500 has been budgetted for the Queens Jubilee. This was geerally thought to be a small amount. However Clubs wishing to apply to the £13k grants fund are able to do so.
There are no capital projects planned for 2012/2013
ED(GW)
Third instalment of our music show now available on Faringdon Radio. Music, chat, interviews and nonsense (nonsense from Graham Fletcher).
Also watch this space as we've just recorded Paul Cornell reading his book 'The Sensible Folly' - to be released very shortly .....anyone else out there written anything we could record and release?
www.faringdonradio.com
To celebrate launch of the Gold Service
From 22/1 until 26th February
http://www.stagecoachbus.com/SwindonSundayPromo.aspx
Timetables
Pretty certain it covers Route 66(Oxford), route 55(Chippenham) and route 5 (Salisbury)
Ifyou have to wait for more than 60 minutes for a scheduled bus, then you can take a taxi and Stagecoach will refund the cost of the taxi see http://www.stagecoachgold.com/StagecoachCustomerCharter.pdf
ED(GW)
Those lovely people at The Bell have offered Boogie Me a home to practice in so thank you very much to Eddie and Mel.
Also, many thanks to all those of you who contacted me with suggestions too.
Looking forward to a “Boogie at the Bell” in 2012!
Mel Lane
I travelled for the first time this morning on one of the new buses and I have to say they are a great improvement on the old ones.
They also offer free (if a bit intermittent) WiFi.
Katrina Campbell
3 of the brand new Stagecoach Gold buses for the 66 route between Swindon & Oxford were in Faringdon today at the Sudbury House Hotel.
There are some pictures here: http://bit.ly/66buses
Apparently there are 7 vehicles for the route, so a very significant investment by Stagecoach Swindon, and the new vehicles begin operating next week.
Anne Rogers
Local, Reliable Window cleaner
Bill Murray 7 meadow way faringdon sn7 7ul
bill.mintwindows@gmail.com contact me via e-mail or phone 07500420702
We have Extended the Hours for our Carvery. It now runs 12 pm to 3 pm. Booking is adviseable.
Eddie & Mel Gravestock
The Bell Hotel
01367 240534
www.bellhotelonline.co.uk
Tesco are having second thoughts about opening a supermarket in Faringdon due to the fact they only made £3 Billion profit last year.Times are hard for them just like the rest of us NOT.
Name supplied.
Is there any poker clubs locally?
Name Supplied
Sunday 22nd 4pm-7pm
Come and see the star closeup, while it's still there
Gene Webb
Does anybody have any idea when the proposed Tesco Store on Park Road wil start construction? Been a while now since they won "supermarket wars", so does anybody know?
Colin
I have been receiving more complaints about dog fouling in the Faringdon area again and would like to post this notice to remind all dog walkers of their responsibilities and what the public can do to report any intelligence in as to who may be causing the issue. This matter will then be investigated further to help resolve the situation.
The main areas of concern which have been recently reported are: Gloucester Street, Southampton Street, Marlborough Gardens, Folly View Road.
Dog Fouling Awareness Notice
I am writing to you as a resident of the Vale to highlight the problem of dog fouling in your area. Unfortunately, dog mess is on the increase in your locality and the Council needs your support in helping to eradicate the problem. Dog mess is not only unpleasant but it spreads diseases which can cause illness and even blindness.
Under the Dogs (Fouling of Land) Act 1996 a person who is in charge of a dog must clean up after it when it fouls any footpath, highway, verge or other open space to which the public have access.
It is a crime to allow a dog to foul in any public area without cleaning it up. By doing so you could face a fixed penalty notice of £50 or prosecution.
Advice for Dog Owners
In order to ensure that you do not fall foul of the law, simply follow these pointers:
• Never let your dog walk a great distance from you as this makes it difficult to see when they foul.
• Always carry a bag when walking your dog so you can clean up after it.
• Encourage your dog to stay on the perimeters of fields or pitches to ensure that any remains of the fouling do not cause any harm to innocent bystanders.
• Do not just park up next to a public area and let your dog roam on its own. This dangerous practice could result in not only a fixed penalty for your dog's fouling – your dog could also be taken away as a stray. A collar and ID tag are also required by law.
• Please report any dog mess that needs clearing up to the Council’s Waste Contractor Biffa on 03000 610 610 or email Biffa at admin.vale@biffa.co.uk identifying the exact location, eg on pavement outside 114 Green Lane, Dean Court, Cumnor.
If you see another dog owner committing this offence please keep a record of anything that can identify them and contact the Vale of White Horse District Council's Environment Wardens on 01235 520202 or email environmental.protection@whitehorsedc.gov.uk
Colin Marshall
Environment Warden, Vale of White Horse District Council Abbey House Abbey Close Abingdon Oxon OX14 3JE
01235 547641 colin.marshall@southandvale.gov.uk
Boogie Me, Faringdon’s home grown big band, have lost their practice venue at the Crown while it is undergoing re-decoration. We currently have no-where to practice. We have a number of gigs planned in the local area in 2012 and we really do need to practice to make sure we can put on a good show and do the very best we can.
Boogie Me are happy to offer a free gig in return for Practice space and we need somewhere once a week from 8pm to 10pm.
Can anyone help us or suggest anywhere? My number is 07836 208800 or email garthpool@btinternet.com
Mel Lane
It will be rescheduled in the Spring
Faringdon TIC
- Faringdon Infant School, Faringdon Junior School and Faringdon Community College have agreed to proceed with their applications to form a multi-academy.
- Each governing body agreed with the proposed governance structure for the multi-academy Trust which will comprise 4 members and 15 Directors.
- The multi-academy trust will be called Faringdon Academy of Schools.
Full report
Two new shows now on line: 'Faringdon Local' featuring interviews with Uptown Fashions and an update on the Faringdon Brewery at the The Swan pub following the consistent popularity of our special show on the Faringdon Brewery from last March '
'...from the Ladder Factory ' the second episode of our new music show.
SPREAD THE WORD ABOUT FARINGDON RADIO
www.faringdonradio.com
Worth having a look at these pages occasionally - there are often some useful things advertised
For Sale
Wanted
Ed(GW)
Thanks to Bill Law and Rosemary (Faringdon History Society) for providing the photos and information.
You see these in the history section of this site on http://faringdon.org/hy Fire Service.htm
Gene Webb
Have no fear- just like Cromwell's cannon, it doesn't have the range to strike any part of Faringdon.
Also - it's made of wood- chainsawed by Rob of Greenshave, South Marston.
The Battle of Faringdon, 1645, was a significant event in the Civil war, and led to the surrender of King Charles I.
I think this is the only mention of the Civil war and Faringdon in the town- unless you know different
Gene Webb
7.30 p.m. in the Corn Exchange.
Copies of the proposed budget will be available from the Council office from Thursday morning 19th.
Next year’s budget has been quite a challenge, bearing in mind the extra cost which the Council have committed to the future operation of the Youth Centre, whilst trying to keep any increase in Council tax to a very minimum.
The Council would welcome residents’ views on whether they have got their priorities right!
June Rennie
Town Clerk Faringdon Town Council
Tel: 01367 240281
Email: june@faringdontowncouncil.gov.uk
2pm- 4p, £2.50 includes refreshments
Tickets from Tourist Information Centre
Whats this with kilometres? Could of sworn we still use miles on the highways in the UK. Or, has Cameron banned the use of miles. BBC and ITV have.
Miles and pounds and ounces till I die.
Name supplied.
Seems odd that a nation that was bomber into submission in WW2 was so reliant on Nuclear power and also sits on the Pacific Ring of Fire fault line! They are now only thinking its not such a good idea since the tsunami wiped out a lot of the country and paralysed the nuclear plants. Tis safe if used in the right places. I have nothing whatsoever to do with the industry but feel that unless this country invests in it, in 10-20 years time we will be in a situation where the industry wont be able to cope with the demand. Solar, wave and wind are just too fickle to have any real impact on our energy needs, so we need sustainable energy plants. Open up the welsh coalfields and use that source to make power. Stuff the carbon emissions and all the doom mongers. How are we going to keep the lights on?
If Hinckley Point was nearer I would love it as I would love to work there. Good clean power. Better than a hideous windmill or a silly solar panel. Not much wind or sun around for a few days now. The Watchfield site must be in trouble by now.
Colin
Thankyou to the people of Faringdon and surrounding villages for the amazing £13,754 raised in 2011 which has now gone directly to Macmillan Oxfordshire!
Many thanks again for your continued support especially during these difficult financial times.
Many thanks
Poppy Fergusson Secretary
Tel: 01367 358213 07919 174958
Faringdon & District Macmillan Cancer Support
The White Horse Bookshop in Faringdon, where we kept part of our stock since 2007, sadly closed down on 19th December 2011. Please note that we would be more than happy to help Faringdon residents with their orders for new books or searches for out-of-print titles. Please phone 01367 - 240056 , Fax to 01367-241544, E-Mail or write to us.
Web Site: http://www.thorntonsbooks.co.uk
Our catalogues are here:
http://www.find-a-book.com/services/catalogues.php?membernr=871&custnr=&source=&lang=en
We also recommend 2 bookshops in our area:
In Abingdon:
Mostly Books in Stert street
Mostly books opened its doors in July 2006. It is owned by Mark & Nicki (bookselling novices when they started) and assisted by a fantastic team of hardworking book lovers: Ellie, Karen, Julia, Oliver and Simon.
In Grove:
John Booksellers in Savile Way
See their recent ad and the history of the bookshop
on the front page of the Folly.
Scharlie and Wim Meeuws
Thornton's Bookshop
Booksellers and Publishers since 1835
The Old Barn - Walnut Court - Faringdon - SN7 7JH - United Kingdom
Member of the ABA since 1907, [ also member of ILAB and BA ]
Thankyou so much to the person who found and returned our black bird. It's not yet back in the tree, but it soon will be
Gene Webb
Friend of the Folly
I don't think the people living in a 30km radius of Fukushima Daiichi in Japan would say that nuclear power is clean!!
Name Supplied
Our Food Choice is very wide from Bar Lunches costing from £4.95 for Baguettes, Jacket Potatoes, Salad Bowls, Starters, Main Courses & Steaks. We also have Specials Up on the Boards in the Bar. The whole Menu runs throughout the day during the Meal Times.
Eddie & Mel Gravestock The Bell Hotel 13 Market Place Faringdon Oxfordshire SN7 7HP 01367 240534
www.bellhotelonline.co.uk
Beau our 2 year old Birman lilac point (white fluffy cat with a beige mask and blue eyes!) has been missing from home on Rawdon Way for about a week.
Any sighting - good or bad - please contact Chris & Cheryl Taylor on Faringdon 01367 240658
HT's comments about David Turner forgot to mention his expertise in the meteorological department
The first signs of spring for me had nothing to do with birds or spring flowers.
For me David donning his shorts meant I could get rid of my woolly vest.
Thank you David
name supplied
I’d just like to say a heartfelt thank you to David, now that he has retired from the library, for all the help and knowledge he has given me and countless others during the years he has been the manager (if that’s the correct word)
I daresay that there are many people out there who have no idea what resources are available through the library service. Not only is every book available to order from anywhere, but - for instance - TV series’, DVDs, audio material; and there is a massive amount of educational and reference material, newspaper and other archives available online to library members. Once this more or less freely available service is diminished it will never be restored, so use it or lose it, as they say.
David’s cheerful, helpful and expert presence was greatly appreciated, so once again, a big “Thankyou!”
HT
As the date of the consultation process comes to a close I feel it is important to note that the three Faringdon Schools have not taken this decision Lightly
I know a few people feel that the consultation process has not been long enough but this process has been on-going since the end of November
I know that the staff of the three schools concerned have had three meetings about the conversion and at each step of the way they have had the chance to air any concerns that they have.
The students (especially at FCC) have had the chance to be listened to by the Academy steering group I know as I have two children at the community college. It is also important to note that the Community College have been thinking about this process for the past 12 months so a lot of thought has gone into this process and all the relevant research has been done.
All the parents of the three schools were given all the relevant information ( I know just before Christmas) but surely this is enough time to have your thoughts on the process and now you have the chance to air any concerns at a public meeting that is being held at the Junior School on Thursday the 12th Jan.
Now my personal view is that this move to Academy Status Can only be a good thing
Scott Gildert
It’s not often that I feel the need to recommend a service. However, I feel compelled to do so in this case.
My laptop had become unusable. It was too slow and following the purchase of a new router refused to connect to the internet via wifi. My computer was essentially a brick with no use.
Herman who runs The IT Van arrived very quickly, and on a Saturday. Assessed the problem and got to work. I now have a laptop with a future, it connects well, is infinitely faster and very useable. As a person Herman is very friendly and very good value. He's saved me buying a new computer. His website is www.theitvan.co.uk
Pete King
Sorry but I would rather have my "hideous" UPVC doors and windows than those ridiculous solar panels.
Saving the planet. Get a life. We need a lot more nuclear power stations and not these ridiculous very costly and frankly wasteful energy sources. Nuclear power is cheap, clean and a lot better in the long term than wind, wave and solar.
Get real.
Colin
The Westmill Solar Cooperative will launch its share issue in Spring 2012, it will offer local people the chance to benefit financially and take positive action on climate change.
Watch out for more information locally, and visit www.westmillsolar.coop to register your interest before the official launch.
Frank Gordon
Westmill Solar Cooperative
South Central Ambulance Service (SCAS) is launching a campaign this Thursday in a bid to stop people calling 999 for non-life threatening reasons. With the service receiving 1,235 hoax calls and many more inappropriate calls from January 2011 to October 2011, this is an increasing problem that is putting people’s lives at risk.
In a concerted effort to address this issue, SCAS is headlining the campaign with a hard-hitting video shot in the style of a movie trailer, which showcases interviews with paramedics, real life emergencies and re-enactments of inappropriate calls and the impact they have. The video will be available to view on www.999southcentral.co.uk as well as on YouTube.
Please promote the campaign and post this link on your websites, intranets and newsletters, as well as sharing it with your family and friends.
The video will be supported by extensive PR activity and to date interviews have been undertaken/are scheduled with a range of national, local and industry specific media, including ITV Meridian, BBC Oxford, Berkshire and Solent, The Sun, The Portsmouth News and The Journal of Paramedic Practice.
The campaign also comprises a number of educational case study films which will be used to target and engage schools, care homes and GPS to help raise awareness of this increasing problem and encourage appropriate use of the service.
For further information on the campaign, please contact Gill Hodgetts, Head of Communications and Public Relations, SCAS (tel: 01869 365097, email: gillian.hodgetts@scas.nhs.uk).
Last evening, at a full Planning Committee meeting, my application to fit solar panels to the rear out-of-site roof of my house was rejected. I'm obviously very disappointed, but also stunned by the attitude of the planning committee. The town council is fully supportive as are my neighbours and its only from one of their gardens and part of a courtyard parking area that the panels would be visible. All bar two of the Planning Committee voted against the application. The vast majority took the view that simply because the property is listed the panels should be disallowed. They seemed to completely disregarded the fact that we've already been allowed to substantially rebuild the interior of the house as well as the exterior rear to which they even allowed us to fit hideous UPVC windows and doors. It seems crazy to me.
So be warned if you live in a listed house and are planning to do your bit to save the planet it might all be in vain.
We're dooomed!!
Ifor Phillips 15 Gloucester Street
Faringdon Leisure is having an Open Day this Sunday (9th Jan). All activities are FREE and there is plenty to do from Parent and Toddler dance, Zumba and Body Balance classes to squash, badminton, swimming and Face painting.
Doors open at 10am so why not come down and join in the fun.
Steve Gilbert Health & Fitness Manager
SOLL Leisure
More People More Active More Often
visit http://www.soll-leisure.co.uk Faringdon Leisure Centre, Fernham Road, Faringdon, Oxon SN7 7LB t: 01367 241755 m: 07534 913624
It has come to my attention that there is a misunderstanding regarding the restart of "Faringdon Country Market" in 2012 due I believe to peoples' confusion with "The Farmers Market".
The Faringdon Country Market takes place in the Corn Exchange every Friday from 9.15 a.m to 11.00 am and we restart on January 20th.
Regards Ken Dawes
Chairman Faringdon Country Market
Lost. Black & white female cat. Black spot under chin. 1 yr old. Wearing collar with phone number on, but that could have come off. Went missing 4th Jan from A417/A420 area.
Special pet & two distraught children would like to see her again.
Any news, good or bad 07788918713.
Thanks. Mandy Scott
Faringdon & District Rotary Club will be re-cycling Christmas Trees Saturday 7th January 9am - 3pm Faringdon Market Place, Shrivenham High Street, The Green Clanfield and Stanford Village Hall. Donations to Local Charities
Please Visit www.faringdonrotaryclub.co.uk to see how active Faringdon Rotary Club Are in your Area
Mike Bell
Now is the time to start thinking about pruning roses and fruit trees. If your looking for help or just some general advice give SG Garden Maintenance a call on 07584244937 or email Contactus@gardensandlawns.co.uk . for a free no obligation quote.
All Garden work undertaken. fully insured and free advice given.
Happy new year. Sean
Does anyone know what is going to happen top the Old Nursery site on the corner of Butts Road and Townend Road. The old building stood empty for some time and was knocked down a couple of months ago and just left. Now it is becoming a rubbish dump.
Name supplied
New 'Faringdon Local' show out now on Faringdon Radio. Featuring interviews with the FDS about their new production of Cinderella and Michael O'Keefe about his new internet cafe business in London Street 'Icafe'.
Music from The Original Rabbit Foot Spasm band, Les Clochards & Ed Alleyene-Johnson
Dont forget to check out our new music show '...from the Ladder Factory' www.faringdonradio.com
Sean
As a decorator, I charge by the hour, I always give an idea of what I think the job will cost ,and always state clearly on the estimate the exact hourly rate, you only pay for the hours I work on your behalf, I always send a full written estimate, any materials I supply are itemised, and, I only charge you what they cost me. I have been running my business this way since 1984...and up until recently been based in Faringdon...(soon to move back)...so look me up in the Faringdon Whats On...I don’t ride a horse or wear a cowboy hat.....I don’t have a builders whistle...sheet everything up....I do however have a couple of rubbish jokes...which most of Faringdon has already heard......including the dear Ladies that run this site (sorry)....so give me a call....estimates and advice are free....some of us take a great pride in what we do...
James Horton
Hil and Gen
Not sure about calling back, but what I'd like to see is a tradesman's properly itemised quotation or estimate. What I mean is the hourly rate for labour, and materials expressed separately. That way we might know what we are paying for and would have some way of knowing whether it is fair, and how the rate compares with other tradesmen. Before anyone tells me the difference between a quotation and an estimate, I already know, but none of the ones I have seen actually tell you how the sum payable is divided. In some countries this is mandatory, there is a rate for the different elements of a job and is clearly fairer than having to accept a guess without knowing what is being charged for what.
name supplied
Karja are now supplying lingerie to Uptown Fashions. Come and see us on the first floor (opposite The Wheatsheaf).
Jane Boulton and Karen Draper
I actually have had problems with "artisans" over the years, but have found my son the most unreliable of them. I have found Daryl Pugh to be a very good plumber and extremely reliable (but beware his "builders whistle")
Janie
Do you have some spare time and want to give something to the people of Faringdon? Why not join the Faringdon Community Bus team that our passengers tell us provide an invaluable service, the team that won the 2009 Faringdon Community Group Award? We have recently lost some of our drivers for various reasons so need new recruits. The bus is straightforward to drive and full training will be given. Although welcome, no regular commitment is required, unless that is your wish. If you would like to join us, please call Richard Smith (07879 470440) or Steve Wright (01367 241011) and see our website, http://www.faringdoncommunitybus.co.uk
Steve Wright
Just as a matter of interest, why is it that tradesmen e.g. roofers, builders, electricians etc. often don't 'call back'? Having been given assurances that they will be in touch, or call around, sometimes on a particular day when I have to wait in for them, they are not seen or heard of again. This has happened to me and others a number of times, and I am left wondering if they are too busy, too disorganised, or simply couldnt care less. In the meantime I am left wasting time - not knowing what to think, then have to start all over again. Surely if they dont want the work or are too busy then they could say so and save me a lot of anxiety and trouble. Any answers?
name supplied
Not all plumbers have a couldn't care less attitude. Our power shower also failed 8 December, inspected next day by R J Harrison, new pump ordered and fitted the following week. Brilliant job done: fast, efficient, tidy courteous and a pleasure to deal with. Definitely recommended. Still waiting for the courtesy of a call back from Abel.
Name Supplied
I was wondering if there are any other Book Crossers in Faringdon as I have very recently joined up and was wondering if they could recommend places to 'release' books.
Sam. BC name- songofdarkness
'...from the Ladder Factory'. A new music show from Faringdon Radio. Music & chat from Sean Hodgson & Pete Rowe with bands from Swindon, Oxford & other places close by. Episode one out now on Faringdon Radio www.faringdonradio.com SPREAD THE WORD - TELL US WHAT YOU THINK
Sean Hodgson
We also heard it Christmas Eve and we are sure it was a robin. In previous years we've always heard one in the evening over the road closer to Mojo furniture shop.
Rachel
Faringdon & District Rotary Club will be re-cycling Christmas Trees Saturday 7th January 9am - 3pm Faringdon Market Place, Shrivenham High Street, The Green Clanfield and Stanford Village Hall. Donations to Local Charities Please Visit www.faringdonrotaryclub.co.uk to see how active Faringdon Rotary Club Are in your Area
Mike Bell
I was intrigued to read the comment about the Bell's opening hours. I do not dispute the fact that they are open, but repeat that, when my friends and I asked for a snack in the early evening, we were told in no uncertain terms that it was the supper menu or nothing i.e. no salads, jacket potatoes or other light meals. Those were only served at lunchtimes. I believe there was nothing on offer for under £7 each.
name supplied
Faringdon Rotary Club will be in the Market Square on Saturday 7th January from 9am to 3pm. Bring your christmas tree along for recycling.
Sarah Benson
Christmas now is over...My elves are on the dole.
I can't afford the heating up here at the North Pole.
I've climbed a lot of chimneys .Each year there's less and less
but my beard gets really sooty and my suit is quite a mess
I'm sick of eating mince pies and a cup of milk is fine
but I'd much prefer a hamburger and a glass of wine.
It’s assumed I’m always jolly and shouting Ho ! Ho ! Ho !
but I’m trying to stop my reindeer by screaming Whoa ! Whoa ! Whoa !
I used to get nice letters from the little girls and boys
asking for a bicycle or basic clockwork toys.
But now they send me Emails or texts by SMS.
and these modern miracles don't tell me their address
I'm troubled now by chilblains and my nose is always runny
So now I'm off to Tenerife for fun
with the Easter Bunny.
S.Claus.
The Bell Hotel in the Market Place, Farindgon. does serve food during the day 8 am till 3 pm and 6 pm till 8.30 pm Monday to Friday ,Saturday 8 am till 8.30 pm and Sunday 12 pm till 8.30 pm. Carvery on a Sunday 12 pm till 2 pm. Booking would be adviseable because we do get fully booked quickly. We have light bite meals, Starters, Main Course and Desserts on our Menus on Every table. Blackboards in the Bar also supply Specials.
Eddie & Mel Gravestock
Hi! I wonder if anyone could help me identify a bird which I heard singing from a tree in the little seating area near the top of Eagles. I came out of the Midnight service on Christmas Eve, at about 1am, to hear a little bird singing its head off. It was rather startling to hear it singing so loudly and clearly at that time on a Winter's night. It was not a blackbird or a thrush, and when I came back to church the next morning, there it was again, singing away. I caught a glimpse of it, and it looked more loke a warbler, but I could not identify it. This bird has such a loud song that I am sure some of the residents in that area will have heard and identified it. I did make a recording on my phone, but it is not all that clear. Thanks for any help with identfication!
Jules Carr
Hi this land is owned by Badnell Properties, they own the land on Pioneer Road. It is going to be a new factory for Alser UK Ltd, the fenced area is part of the new yard as the factory will be where the peugeot garage was. Hope this helps.
Sue Crook
I received an e-mail today from commercial estate agents Rapleys (www.rapleys.co.uk), asking if I wanted to open a store in a small Oxfordshire market town called Faringdon! I wasn't impressed with their attention to detail when the e-mail spelt Farringdon with two 'rs'. On reading further, it described the town centre as 'vibrant', but made no mention of the impending threat to the viability and vitality of the town from the Out of Town Tesco. The Rapley details outline the plans to downsize the Budgens store & to create a new sub-let unit.
David
D Hatton (Plumbing and Heating Services) We would like to say thank you to Mr Hatton who replaced our power shower promptly and efficiently. Had we gone with the response from other plumbers we would be waiting until the New Year for a replacement. A job well done.
Rachel and Simon
Does anyone know what's happening on the land at the end of Southampton Street South? A heavy duty fence has been erected and there has been a lot of earthmoving equipment moving about. I've heard rumours of allotments, but likewise of a carpark/turning area/access for cars and lorries coming to the new Tesco. I certainly hope the latter is not the case; it would blight an otherwise quiet area of Faringdon.
Grant Womack
Once more the Folly Tower displays a Festive Light
I'm sure we all admire it
So....
THANK YOU PETER WHITE
THATMAN
Yes, it is with despair that we have just discovered that, once again, the rose bush in our front garden has been stripped. We had a really beautiful rose for Christmas and some thieving yob has helped himself. What is the solution? Barbed wire? Remove the whole bush and replant it safely out of reach, and sight? We are really fed up.
Geoffrey and Carolyn Williams
Our new 'Faringdon Local' show is now out featuring interviews with Steve Gilbert Personal trainer, Alan Mcfadyen Faringdon Fire & Rescue. Music from: Handsdown, Mortdelamer, and Martyn Joseph. We wish you all a merry Xmas and thank you for your support during our first year. Sean www.faringdonradio.com SPREAD THE WORD ABOUT FARINGDON RADIO
We had the same experience about dining in Faringdon.We got the "not doing food" message in The Old Crown and repaired to the Red Lion which ,a few months ago,was a good place.My wife's cousin wanted to know what was the"pie of the day".The young lady on the counter went into the kitchen and came back with the message:"He'll be out in a minute".The minute grew into 5 minutes until I crossly said:"I only want to know the pie of the day ".The young lady said:"I only wish I could tell you".I went back to my wife's cousin who'd gone off the pie idea and I ordered something else.Forty five minutes elapsed during which I had time to notice that the pub seemed to be making the pub itself a priority over eating" I uttered a gentle reminder about the food at the counter and from the young lady came the two words:"Ten minutes".I said that if the food hadn't come in ten minutes I'd want my money back.It came in the nick of time to avoid me carrying out my threat.In fairness the food was satisfactory - but the way seems open for someone to provide simple meals at a reasonable price and at reasonable speed.
Bill Rennells
There's been another series of repeated dog fouling, this time in the vicinty of the tennis courts, especially on neighboroughing pavements and up the alley way to the health centre. With the dark evenings the increased chances of stepping on a deposit makes this particularly unpleasant. When this last happened the dog warden caught the culprit that time, which put an end to the matter. He has the power to impose a large fine. However if anybody can identify the current offender a quick word might bring the matter to a close, without the dog warden having to investigate.
Name Supplied
Faringdon 2012 Calendars are now reduced in Faringdon Community and Tourist Information Centre.
Were £7.50 now £6 each or two for £10.
We only have 20 left so hurry!
Faringdon Town Council and Faringdon Community & Tourist Information Centre
We will be closed from 12.30pm on Thursday 22nd December 2011 through to 9am on Tuesday 3rd January 2012
The Town Council telephone (01367 240281) will be manned between 9am and 12.30pm on 28th, 29th and 30th December but the office will be closed to members of the public.
Outside of these hours please leave a message on our answer phone.
The top of one of the very old ( over 220 years) Scots Pine at the Folly has broken off in the recent high winds- very sad -especially as it was a tree with one of our super blackbirds perched in it.
The blackbird is no longer there- so I guess someone has 'rescued' it.
Please do pass it to one of the friends of the Folly so we can put it back.
'23 blackbirds baked in a pie' doesn't have the same ring to it!
Thanks
Gene Webb
01367 242222
Support Faringdon town centre? Dream on!
Going out with friends tonight, went into the Crown and were told crossly "we're not doing food". Crossed over to the Bell, only to discover they don't do any light meals in the evening, not jacket potatoes, not salads, only dishes costing much more than we wanted to afford.
Do these people take any interest in Faringdon?
Ended up getting takeaways from Portuguese Faringdonians. We were made welcome there and the food was good and reasonably priced. But that is not what we were really looking for when going out for the evening.
Name Supplied
| 1945 Faringdon
Firemen - 14/12/11 This is a photo of Faringdon Firemen in 1945 or 1946, also a list of names of which i am three short. This photo has appeared in the Oxford Mail and Folly Papers to try and find the missing names. The photo was taken in Bromsgrove opposite what is now Hart avenue. (I believe) During the second world War Faringdon Firemen were sent to Exeter, Bristol,Coventry,London and I believe Southampton during the Blitz. The then Lord Faringdon who was in the Fire service attended some of these and I believe distinguished himself. Also Faringdon has had a number of Fire Stations One of which was in Bromsgrove (3rd Station) where Hart avenue is now and then under Marlborough House (4th Station) where the motorist shop ( Piano shop before) is at present. Has anybody who looks at this site a photo of either of these previous Fire Stations?
|
 Click to see a bigger picture ( large file 3.6mb) |
Bill Law
01367 242226
12 days until Christmas – don’t become a victim of burglary this winter
Christmas is a busy time of year for everyone, but ensuring your home is properly protected against festive crime should be made a priority.
Ch Insp Geoff Robinson, Head of Neighbourhood Policing and Partnerships, said: “Having bought all those wonderful presents, don't make it easy for someone to steal them from your home.
“Keep presents out of sight until last thing on Christmas Eve and if you 'hide' or store larger items such as bicycles in the shed or outbuildings, make sure they are very secure.
“Don't leave curtains open so people can see your decorations as potential thieves can see in. Be extra careful about locking doors and windows. As a fire precaution, don't leave Christmas lights on in the house while you are out.
“If you go out for the evening, make it look like someone is at home by turning on lights and the radio. If you go away for the holiday period - use an automatic timer for lights and ask a trusted neighbour to watch your home.
“If you have high value presents like a new laptop, mobile phone or games console, please dispose of the packaging with care. Just leaving it next to the bin with the other rubbish will advertise what you have inside your home for all to see. Fold it up and put it in the bin or take it to the recycling centre”.
Consider property marking high value items with your postcode and house number. This will put a thief off as the property can be easily identified as stolen, and if it is stolen, this will assist the police in getting your property back to you. Also, keep a record of the serial numbers of expensive items.
Some basic burglary prevention advice is bullet pointed below.
Remember to close and lock all windows and doors, even if you only leave the house for a few minutes.
Most burglars will only steal items that are easy to carry and sell on such as jewellery and small electrical items – like laptops, mobile phones and cameras. Often, the first place they look is the bedroom for jewellery and money. Consider hiding jewellery and money away in a place that only you would know about.
Lock items away when you leave the house and do not leave them on display in front of a window. This advice applies to Christmas presents too.
If you have a high value present such as a new laptop, mobile phone or games console, dispose of the packaging with care. Leaving it next to the bin with the other rubbish will advertise what you have it in the house for all to see. Fold it up and put it in the bin or take it to the recycling centre.
Consider property marking the high value items with your postcode and house number. This will put the thief off as the property can be easily identified as stolen, and if it is stolen, this will assist the police to get your property back for you. Also, make sure you keep a record of the serial numbers.
Ensure you have a good lock on your garden shed and consider getting an alarm fitted. Always keep bikes stored somewhere safe.
For further crime prevention advice or to find out more about crime in your area, follow us on Twitter @ThamesVP (opens new window)alternatively you can give us a ‘like’ on Facebook (opens new window)
Alternatively you can also visit our website or call and ask to speak to a Crime Reduction Adviser via the non-emergency number, 101.
I would like to express my thanks to the members of the town council who "fully supported" my proposal to fit solar PV panels to the out-of-sight rear roof of my house in Gloucester Street. Unfortunately the planning department's design and conservation officer has objected to the proposal "on the basis that the proposed solar panels would have an adverse affect on the appearance of the listed building and would detract from its architectural interest".
I've been looking for signs of architectural interest for the last sixteen years and not found any yet.
The final decision on the application will be made at a full Planning Committee meeting in early January.
Ifor Phillips
15 Gloucester Street
I discovered this website more than 8 years ago. I had a vision of the two editors wearing large flowery hats, driving gleaming gas guzzlers and meeting like minded ladies for lunch. I have never met either of them so I retain the vision.
Since then I have submitted 411 posts (including this one if it is published ) and used almost 40 pseudonyms, partly from modesty but mainly from fear of retribution
At this time of year I wait for someone to express their thanks to Gene and Hil for their hard work so that I can simply say ‘Here Here’ or even ‘Hear Hear.’
I believe that without this safety valve many contributors would have spent time and money on a psychiatrist’s couch or on the phone to the Samaritans being told ‘your call is important to us and a sympathiser will be with you when they have finished their coffee’
But as no one has so far come forward
On behalf of a vast number of grateful but shy posters
Merry Christmas. Happy New Year and many thanks Gene and Hil
HGM
ED(GW): Thanks HGM ( no hat or gas guzzler!)
There are many ‘heroes’ in our town whose achievements go unrecognised please nominate for Faringdon’s Community Awards 2011. Your nominations can be for anyone from Faringdon who you feel deserves to be recognised.
There are three categories:
· Community Hero
· Group Award
· Business Award
You can nominate for any category or for all three. Nominations will be shortlisted and put to the public vote in February / March 2012
Nomination forms are available from Faringdon Community and Tourist Information Centre or you can email your nominations to sally@faringdontowncouncil.gov.uk
Closing date for nominations is 31st January 2012.
I'm early to bed and I’m early to rise I should feel Healthy, Wealthy and Wise
But that silly song for me is quite wrong
For I know that I only
feel lonely
Insomniac
BT announce fibre for Faringdon in 2012, Monday 12th December 2011
Please follow this link to the BT Press Release: http://www.btplc.com/News/Articles/Showarticle.cfm?ArticleID=5D490029-9378-46B1-922D-94A8F8F29AA9
The Consultant.
I have to also sing the praises of Second to None. I was visiting the area from Devon at the end of last week and on Friday afternoon, my car developed a problem - which was a worry as I needed to return to Devon on Sunday.
After speaking to Bob at second to None, I took my car in at 4:00 on Friday. By 11:30 Saturday morning they had diagnosed the problem, sourced and fitted the parts and all at an exceptionally good cost.
Their customer service was exceptional, as was their value for money – certainly not what you would get from a main dealer or a national chain.
Thank you Bob & the Team
Richard King
The Faringdon Community Academy have now written and provided information to the following groups:
· Parents and carers of every pupil in Faringdon Infant School, Faringdon Junior School and Faringdon Community College.
· All students at Faringdon Community College.
· Faringdon Junior School has been provided information for Student Councils at their schools.
· Every member of staff at these schools and all support staff have received informal briefings from the Steering Group.
· Every Head Teacher in the Faringdon Partnership and every feeder school.
· Governors at all 3 schools.
· Local Community Groups including: Faringdon Town Council, Family Centre, Chamber of Commerce, U3A, Faringdon Area Project, Faringdon Association of Residents, Faringdon 41 Club and Faringdon & District Rotary Club.
· Additionally, information has been provided to the Faringdon Folly, Faringdon.Org, What’s On and Talking Points.
There is a link on each school website to an Academy Status page providing copies of articles and all the letters listed above, Q&A and a link to the Department for Education’s website which provides a comprehensive library of information relating to academies.
Every piece of correspondence includes an e-mail address (academyqueries@fcc.oxon.sch.uk) for any member of the local community to raise observations or ask questions – these queries are being answered individually and the questions,
where relevant are being added to the extensive list of Q&As available via the school websites. The Academy Status web-page includes a clear statement that sets out the vision for education in Faringdon under a multi-academy structure.
It is acknowledged that this is a significant change programme and the Governing Bodies and the Steering Group are taking this responsibility extremely seriously.
It is also acknowledged that the pace of the proposed changes is relatively quick; less so for Faringdon Community College who have been considering this option for over 12-months.
However, it is understood that there maybe significant financial benefits for academies that convert within this financial year and consequently, the Steering Group has decided that it would be prudent to target a conversion of 1 April 2012 in order to take advantage of the higher funding levels.
This process will conclude on 12 January 2012 with an opening evening for all groups represented above. The evening will comprise a short presentation from the Faringdon Community Academy Steering Group followed by an opportunity for those present to ask questions.
The Open Evening will take place at the Junior School from 6-7pm. The Governing Bodies from each school will then meet individually to decide whether to proceed with their applications.
Even if all Governing Bodies decide to continue with their applications, they will retain the option to withdraw at any stage leading up to the legal point of transfer, if they feel that they are not satisfied with the outcomes that evolve.
For example, a key decision point will be the receipt of the proposed funding agreements from the Department.
For further information please visit our website on www.fcc.oxon.sch.uk/college_news/academy_status.html. The Faringdon Steering Group would be happy to listen to your views.
Please e-mail your comments to academyqueries@fcc.oxon.sch.uk or write to the Business Manager at Faringdon Community College, Fernham Road, Faringdon, Oxon, SN7 7LB.
A great voluntary job- you get to see the whole performance when you usher. The job is mainly to man a fire door, but you also take tickets, sell programmes and icecream.
http://www.oxfordplayhouse.com/takingpart/Jobs.aspx
Gemma Summerfield
Front of House Manager
T: 01865 305352
Read about the savings to the council and how to sign up
We would like to say a big thank you to all those that came to the station on Saturday and supported us. We raised just over £800:00 pound on the day and this would not have been possible without the support of the people of Faringdon and also the businesses in town who donated items to us.
Once again, thank you all and have a safe festive period.
We look forward to seeing you all in March at our carwash.
The crew at Faringdon Fire Station.
Many thanks for your time.
Darrell Thomas.
Fire Fighter.
Faringdon Fire Station.
We would sincerely like to thank the great people of Faringdon and the surrounding area who have so generously supported us this year. Since January we have sent £13,500 across to Macmillan Oxfordshire (Tel: 01264-343810 - Macmillan Accounts Office).
We have a remaining £254 in Lloyds Bank Faringdon as a back up. The total amount raised is £13,754.
WE ARE TRULY GRATEFUL FOR YOUR SUPPORT TO MACMILLAN AND WISH YOU A HAPPY AND PEACEFUL CHRISTMAS!
Chris Moorhouse
Chairman
Here, here, regarding the recent post supporting Second 2 None. Some things are not always about price alone, although I have found them very competitive and cheaper than the big guns. It's also about honesty, integrity and customer service.
I recently discovered an odd flat spot on one of my tyres, one that I had purchased from Second 2 None some months earlier. I anticipated a response that the tyre had been damaged by accidental means (hitting a rock, curb, stone etc). Indeed this was the first reaction "it looks like you have hit something", however without any prompting the owner took time to remove the tyre and investigate it further. I'm no expert, so he could quite easily have said "yes, sorry it looks like you have hit something in the road". In contrast without any pressure he advised that he couldn't see what the cause was and would send it back. He then fitted a brand new tyre, smiled and saw me on my way with no charge.
I know where I will take my car in the future.
Devils advocate
A quirky story, written by Dr Who writer, Paul Cornell- especially for the Friends of the Folly.
All proceeds go to support the running of the Folly tower and woodland.
A signed copy for £2.50. It's a snip!!! Great little present for those who have everything!
You can buy it from the Tourist information centre, or directly from me
genewebb@rocketmail.com
Agreeing with Mark's posting about the speed with which the consultation process for academy status is being pushed through. These are very important and far reaching changes that are being suggested for all three schools and to rush it all through before everyone involved has had a chance to consider them fully is not a proper consultation. I suspect that the governing bodies have already made up their minds to do this and can't wait for January 12th when they think it will be all over. Remembering that once this decision is made there is no going back to local authority control.
How convenient that the two week Christmas break falls right in the middle of the process.
Kevin (another parent)
Not only do they do a good job at a reasonable price but the boss is very pleasant and friendly and so is her husband and her dog
HGM
Having travelled through Carterton and Highworth this week, and having seen the display in Faringdon, I would suggest that Faringdon Electrical Services should have gone to Specsavers! I was in the Market Place on Saturday afternoon before and during the Switch-On, amongst a packed audience who did appreciate the lights and efforts made by the Faringdon Retailer Group, the Faringdon Rotary Club and Faringdon Town Council, and I thought the whole event was a huge success.
I understand from a reliable source, that the reason some of the lights went out on Saturday and some stayed on until Monday morning was due to sabotage!
Name Supplied
in the Catholic Church of Blessed Hugh Faringdon
This Sunday 11th December - 3pm .
CAROLS for Choir and Audience.
Free Entry.
Retiring collection in aid of Help for Heroes.
Conductor: Terence Carter . Organist: John Ridgway .
Followed by HOT PUNCH AND MINCE PIES.
All welcome - DO Come!
I see Second to None sponsor the Faringdon First Responders.
I do hope the person/people (I forget!) who posted negative comments about them earlier this year based entirely on price feel an appropriate pang of guilt should they or their loved ones be in the unhappy situation of needing the services of the FFR.
Good to see a local business who believes in putting something back into the community - we could do with more like them!
Personally, I can't fault them.
Name supplied
South Oxfordshire and Vale of White Horse District Councils have been jointly shortlisted in the "Council of the Year" category for the 2012 Local Government Chronicle (LGC) Awards.
The two councils, which operate on a predominantly shared basis, are one of just six throughout the country to have been shortlisted for this prestigious award.
Read more about it
Now with a 30 year lease, here are the plans
Does anyone know if the charity Christmas Tree sale will take place in Park Road this year? If so, is it this Saturday the 10th December?
The Consultant.
The decorations have been switched on so now we're officially into the traditional Christmas period.
And what is filling my TP screen ?
Faringdon Community Academy Steering Group Update - Federation and Academy Status
This is my alternative posting for Christmas. It's a previously published poem which I like and if the author objects to a bit of Christmas plagiarism. I have a message for him/her
Merry Christmas, Happy New year...and Sue me !
Thatman
| Belated Christmas
Presents Our Christmas lights are not brand new, in fact they're rather old. But this year we decided we would have a star of gold. It had a bulb inside it.. which made it very bright. I hung it in the window and it was a pretty sight. Later on that evening I was watching Kenneth More when suddenly a visitor come knocking at my door. The knocking really angered me and made me want to yell. "That little button on the frame is connected to a bell." But full of good will I went to see who it was disturbing me. A sunburnt chap was standing there with a towel on his head.His outfit was a stylish sheet .with stripes of blue and red. Two other men were with him, they were a motley lot I thought "Jehovah's Witnesses ?" but then I thought " They're not" Their leader told me they had come..'from a land afar'. What brought them here to Faringdon?…They said my shining star. They'd come to us with presents. At least they said they were. The Gold was very welcome but what is Frankincense and Myrrh ? I told them that their SatNav had got their route quite wrong. I wished them Merry Christmas and said now please get along I also said " You're miles off track and sorry to relate.The place you want is Bethlehem and you're two thousand years too late". |
Re closure of David Gottelier's White Horse Bookshop
Please note that David has reduced all his books by 25 % Most of our own stock is currently for sale with a 50 % discount.
Wim Meeuws
As a parent with a child at school in Faringdon, I would like to know what “consultation” is going to take place over the next couple of weeks. The Schools break up next week and many parents will be away over Christmas. This is not something that can be rushed and all parents, teachers and older pupils should be involved. This will take much longer and to conclude by January 12th, I believe could not involve full consultation.
Regards Mark
For many years there has been a great deal of informal collaboration between the Infant School, the Junior School and the Community College.
We want to build on the achievements of each school and ensure that Faringdon schools remain at the forefront of education.
For this reason, we have been considering options to form a federation of Faringdon schools so that we can share best practice and take advantage of the strengths that exist in the teaching and leadership at each school.
More recently another opportunity has presented itself and that is to explore the benefits of transferring from the Local Authority to Academy status. The Boards of Governors of the 3 schools have voted in favour to register their interest with the Department for Education to convert to academy status.
The intention would be for all 3 schools to convert as a multi-academy, operating to a Board of Trustees who would provide strategic oversight and direction and with all 3 schools forming local Governing bodies responsible for the day-to-day running of their schools.
Consultation will take place with students, parents, staff, unions and the local community, after which the Governing bodies will meet individually to decide how to proceed.
This process will take place over the next few weeks and will conclude at an Open Evening to be held at 6pm on Thursday 12th January at Faringdon Junior School.
If the Governing bodies agree to move forward, it is envisaged that the conversion will take place by 1 April 2012.
It is considered that the main advantages of converting to a multi-academy model are that it will give schools more immediate and direct control over the running of the school.
Furthermore, if all 3 schools transfer then it will enable us to speak collectively with one voice for all Faringdon schools and ensure improved continuity of education between our schools.
A Steering Group, comprising senior members from all 3 schools will consider any risks or concerns raised during the consultation process. All 3 of the mainstream political parties are committed to the Academy model and there is a growing momentum in Oxfordshire with many of our neighbouring schools having registered their interest to convert or having already converted. Whilst all 3 Faringdon schools maintain an excellent relationship with Oxfordshire County Council, it is clear that the enduring pressure to reduce Local Authority spending is likely to have an adverse impact on the breadth and depth of the services that they have traditionally supplied.
By converting to a multi-academy, Faringdon schools will be able to self-determine the range and level of services that they procure.
For further information please visit our website on www.fcc.oxon.sch.uk/college_news/academy_status.html. The Faringdon Steering Group would be happy to listen to your views.
Please e-mail your comments to academyqueries@fcc.oxon.sch.uk or write to the Business Manager at Faringdon Community College, Fernham Road, Faringdon, Oxon, SN7 7LB.
Bob Wintringham Chair of Governors Faringdon Community College
Mark Mobey Chair of Governors Faringdon Junior School
Roger Cox Chair of Governors Faringdon Infant School
Hello All
I have a current SOLL Faringdon Leisure Centre membership that I would like to escape. The only way I can do this is by transferring to another customer. So if anyone is thinking of joining up please contact me and I can transfer across.
The membership is £25 per month and tied until January 2013 so you won’t get tied in as long as you were if you were to take a new membership!
Hopefully this will be beneficial for both of us!
Thanks Stephen
sday01@hotmail.com
Firstly I would like to say that myself and my family had a wonderful time yet again this year. Missed the continental christmas market we've had previously but was a lovely event none the less.
I would also like to say sorry to the woman pushing her child in a wheelchair. I really wish I had said something to the incredibly rude woman who refused to move so you could get passed. You were very polite when asking people if you could get through, and that ignorant woman dared to ask why she should move. My simple answer should have been "because you can!" but I was too dumbstruck that someone would say such a thing to you, and by the time I realised I hadn't imagined it, the moment had passed.
Its people like this that taint our wonderful town. It almost makes me ashamed to be a Faringdonian!
Emma Riddle
Should anyone wish to see some nice local Christmas light displays, then please visit Highworth or Carterton, these are just two of the annual Christmas light displays installed by our company Faringdon Electrical Services.
Merry Christmas from FES
Let's face it. Faringdon's Christmas Festival of Light isn't very impressive even if the lights were working and the sad fact is that whoever is in charge is probably doing his/her best with a limited budget.
Many years ago I was taken to see a Peter Pan Panto. At one point Tinkerbell was also having a serious problem with her power supply and her light was fading.
In order to bring back her personal illumination the audience had to shout "WE BELIEVE IN FAIRIES " So we shouted and it worked. Happy days !
But back to the present ( is that an oxymoron ? Does it matter ?)
In the past we have had one much admired claim to fame and I hope that this year it will once again lighten our darkness. I refer of course to The Folly Light.
But just to be on the safe side I would like everyone whenever they see the Folly Tower, to shout "WE BELIEVE IN PETER WHITE"
OK....It might not work but desperate measures for desperate times....
Who knows ? It might.
Wishful Thinker
This show features David Reynolds talking about the relaunch of the '15 Minute Club'.
Joe Moore, Sarah Oliver and Nick Brumit of the Cotswold Voices interviewed at their Christmas Concert at Faringdon Junior school.
Music from: David Reynolds, Luci-Lu, and a live recording of the Cotswold Voices.
www.faringdonradio.com
Tuesday 6th Portwell Bar, 7pm - 8pm
Come and join us for a jolly good sing
Gene Webb
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Thanks
Ed(GW)
It was a real disappointment to see the complete town centre Christmas lights switched off by 9.00pm on the Saturday evening, dose any one know why ?
Could it be a new idea to save energy, there doesn’t seem much point in putting them up if there not going to be switched on!!!!.
A disappointed resident
Super concert last evening. To see and hear so many people singing together was a joy. Great soloists too.
Hope lots of money was raised
Name Supplied
Following the promotion of Faringdon's free 2 hours parking 'from December' in the Winter 2001 edition of the Advertiser I thought that I would try it out.
I tried to use the Gloucester Street Car Park but could not see any obvious signs. Then I noticed a set of plastic laminated sheets attached to the base of the notice board. These turned out to be a set of legal notices setting out the changes for the whole of the VWHDC area, including Faringdon, and they quite clearly stated that these changes would be in effect from 1 December 2011. As the Advertiser article said that one had to display a valid ticket, even for the free 2 hours, I tried to extract one from the machine - but that was not possible without paying. I asked another lady there how to do it and she just said she had paid - but I showed her the notice and she agreed that it said 1 December was the start date. As I had no change I drove on to Highworth where I knew that I could park free for 2 hours and shop without rushing.
On returning home I spoke with a woman at VWHDC who said that the scheme was not operational until 9 December, I pointed out that their own legal notices at the car park said 1 December. She had no explanation for the discrepancy in dates but promised to post the answer on this website when she had found it out.
Name Supplied
BBC Radio Oxford will be doing a feature about Christmas Lights on their breakfast programme on 3rd, and Faringdon is one of the towns featured.
The piece will be aired between 7.45 and 8.30 a.m.
We are being ‘pitched’ against Wallingford, who turn their lights on this Sunday.
The idea is that, having heard the piece, people will be able to vote for the town they like the best, via Twitter number 81333.
Please could you urge everyone to listen to the piece and then vote for us? Thanks and kind regards,
June
FTC
ED(GW) Sorry I didn't get this on sooner- but maybe still time to text
Calling all unpaid carers: Meeting at White Horse Surgery on Thursday 19th January from 10am – 12noon
Includes carers who are registered with the Fern Hill Practice.
We can support carers to get grants for carer’s breaks and make sure they are on the correct benefits.
We can put carers in contact with volunteer services to give them a break form their caring role and put them in contact with many other services who can support them.
Please just come along or Phone Merisha Anderson on 0755 743 0882
Email: merishaanderson@ageukoxfordshire.org.uk
Carers Oxfordshire, Office number : 01235 424715